Dalhousie is one of the prime hill station of Hmachal Pradesh interspersed with colonial era buildings, old churches, pine covered slopes and view of snow-capped mountains. Though it is one of the most beautiful hill stations of Himachal, yet one will not find the maddening crowd of Shimla, Kulu or Manali here. This picturesque hill station was established in 1854 by the then Viceroy of India, Lord Dalhousie and it soon became a favourite summer retreat for British troops and bureaucrats. The colonial look of the buildings and churches of Dalhousie makes it extremely popular among foreign tourist visiting India.

View of the snow-capped Pir Panjal from Dalhousie

Where is Dalhousie?

Dalhousie is a famous hill station in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh in India.

About Dalhousie

Situated between altitudes of 6000 ft. to 9000 ft. above sea level, this popular hill station is on the western edge of the Dhauladhar mountain range of the Himalayas facing the Pir Panjal range. Fold after fold of snow-capped pristine mountains viewed from Dalhousie along with the lush green forests of pine, cedar and deodar attract nature-lovers, as well as usual throng of tourists seeking shelter from the sweltering heat of the plains.
Set on the five hills of, – Kathlog, Potreyn, Tehra, Bakrota and Balum, the hill station of Dalhousie is honeymooner’s paradise as the usual hustle and bustle of the maddening tourist found in Shimla, Kulu or Manali is absent here. A walk along the pine covered trail where clouds come skimming down, holding the hand of your beloved will definitely be the most romantic and memorable experience of your life.

Sightseeing in and around Dalhousie

Churches – Dalhousie has quite a number of old Churches of the colonial past that seems to be untouched by time. St John’s Church at Gandhi Chowk, St.Francis Church at Subhash Chowk, St Andrews Church and St Patrick’s Church at Balun are the four beautiful churches in Dalhousie having remnants of Scottish and Victorian architecture.Gandhi Chowk – Previously known as GPO, this is a lively square with numerous restaurants and shop all around. One can have a clear view of the snow-capped mountains from here. There is a Tibetan market nearby as well.Subhash Baoli – Situated at a distance of 1.6 Km. from Gandhi Chowk, the place is famous because the great freedom fighter Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose spent a lot of time here in 1937 during a secret visit, contemplating and mediating. The place has a spring, a large tree and a commanding view of the snow-capped mountains around Dalhousie.

Walking along the forest path inside Kalatope sanctuary

Kalatope – This is a wildlife sanctuary located at a height of 2440 m. and at a distance of 10 Km. from Dalhousie. The sanctuary is the home to the Ghoral and Himalayan Black Bear. One of the best views of the glorious surroundings of Dalhousie can be obtained from Kalatope. Walking along the forest path and staying at the forest rest house of Kalatope is a wild and adventurous experience.Panchpula – 3 Km. from Dalhousie, this is a beautiful place with a natural water stream feeding a number of pools. There is the Samadhi of Sardar Ajit Singh the freedom fighter and uncle of martyr Bhagat Singh.Satdhara – On the way to Panchpula at an altitude of 2036 m. this is the place where seven springs having the reputation of therapeutic value descends.Dainkund – At an altitude of 2,745 m and 10 km from the town, this tall peak outside Dalhousie town presents a bird’s-eye view of the hills, valleys and the river Beas, Ravi and the Chenab threading their way down to the plains. The passage of mountain winds through the forest of Dainkund produces a series of effects – depending on the wind’s velocity – ranging from a gentle humming to an eerie wail. There is a popular Devi temple on the hill.

Spectacular view of the meadow of Khajjiar

Khajjiar – Just 27 Km. from Dalhousie is the exquisite saucer-shaped meadow of Khajjiar. This picture perfect grassland is extremely popular among tourists who at the very first sight are wonder struck by the awesome beauty of the palace. Fringed by tall Cedar and Pine trees imparting stateliness, the place has a small lake in the middle. There is floating island in the centre of the lake which at times becomes hidden due to the tall grasses growing all around. A Nine hole golf course and a golden-spired temple dating back to 12th century is an added attraction of Khajjiar.

How to reach Dalhousie?

By Air – Gaggal (Kangra) is the nearest airport at a distance of 140 Km from Dalhousie. Amritsar airport at a distance of 192 Km and Jammu airport at a distance of 190 Km are other options.By Rail – The nearest railhead is Pathankot, which is well connected to all major Indian cities.By Road – Onward journey from Pathankot to Dalhousie at a distance of 80 Km is by road. Punjab and Himachal Roadways run regular bus services in this route. Dalhousie can also be reached from Jammu (340 Km), Shimla (340 Km), Manali (380 Km) and Dharamshala (130 Km) by state buses or private cars.
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Where to stay at Dalhousie?

Hotel Monal – Situated at the very heart of Dalhousie, Hotel Monal offers a clean and hygienic environment. Rooms and suites of the hotel are designed to cradle you in luxury with an open view of the splendid Deodar forest and the virgin pine mountains and the privacy of your very own balcony will give you a feeling that you are in the middle of everything, yet away from it all. With its private balconies and full valley view, Hotel Monal offers the best scenic view in entire Dalhousie.
To book your accommodations in the hotel or to have more related information, just log on to: http://www.hotelmonal.com/ or else you can give a call at 09816463388, 09418018362.Hotel Dalhousie Heights – Situated on Lovers Lane and at two minutes walking distance from he main bus stand, Hotel Dalhousie Heights is another most popular and sought after hotels of Dalhousie. Step inside the huge lobby and you’ll be struck by its lavish and beautiful interiors. The hotel ensures a royal treatment amidst natural bounty.
To book your accommodations in the hotel or to have more related information, just log on to: http://www.dalhousieheights.com/ or inquire by calling at – 01899- 242810, 240742.Taj Palace – This is a very good budget staying option of Dalhousie. The hotel has 12 rooms that are the rooms are well furnished with modern amenities. To know more about the hotel and availability of rooms, give a call at 093371122.Hotel Sangrila – Hotel Shangri-La is beautifully located in the heart of the town between Gandhi Chownk and Subhash Chownk. The hotel rightfully boasts of a good accommodation and hospitality for its guests. Adding to it is the charm of its being surrounded by Deodar forest & providing a grand spectacle of Pir Panjal range, Kalatop and Jandri Ghat Palace. To inquire more and to know about room availability, call at – 01899242314.Hotel Amber (01899 – 240125)Hotel Sun view (01899 – 242654)Hotel Nest (01899 – 242505)

About the Author: Hi! friends, travelling is my passion and my only hobby. High mountains to deep seas, lush green forests to barren deserts, holy places to sites of historical importance, - every beautiful place attracts me the same way.
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[…] After having your lunch walk down to the Gandhi Chowk and feel the essence of this small Himachal hill town. The colonial era buildings, old churches, pine covered slopes and view of snow-capped mountains will mesmerize you for sure. To know everything about your Dalhousie tour, just click HERE. […]